A LINK BETWEEN DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY AND GRAIN-FREE DIETS?

Recently, veterinary cardiologists have identified a possible link between cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and “grain free” boutique diets high in lentils, peas, other legume seeds (pulses) and/or potatoes. The FDA is currently investigating this connection, which likely involves many complex factors. Studies have demonstrated that some dogs receiving these diets have low blood taurine levels, however testing and/or supplementing taurine alone is insufficient given that many reported dogs have normal taurine levels. Additionally, almost all reported diets had methionine-cystine values above the recommended minimum nutritional requirement, the significance of which is unclear.
 
What is DCM?

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease where the heart muscle weakens and can’t pump effectively, potentially leading to congestive heart failure. Signs include increased breathing effort, coughing, lethargy, and collapse.

It is most common in middle-aged to older large breed dogs, though some breeds (like Golden Retrievers and Labradors) may be more sensitive to low taurine levels, and cases have also been seen in smaller breeds on certain grain-free diets.

What Should I Do If My Dog Is Diagnosed With DCM?

♦ Change the diet. Supplementing taurine alone is not sufficient.

♦  Echocardiography (heart ultrasound) is the only test that can reliably confirm DCM. Testing taurine levels alone is not sufficient. 

 

♦ Work with your veterinary cardiologist to diagnose DCM and monitor for improvement. Most dogs improve with diet change and medical management.

♦ Supplement taurine from a brand with good quality control such as NOW, Solgar, Swanson, Twinlab, or Vitamin Shoppe.

♦ Report the case to the FDA.

 

Choosing The Right Diet

Reported Grain Free Diets Associated With DCM

  • Acana
  • Zignature
  • Taste of the Wild
  • 4Health
  • Earthborn Holistic
  • Blue Buffalo
  • Nature’s Domain Fromm
  • Merrick
  • California Natural
  • Natural Balance
  • Orijen
  • Nature’s Variety
  • Nutrisource
  • Nutro
  • Rachel Ray Nutrish
  •  

What Should I Do If I'm Feeding A Grain Free Diet?

  1. Check The Label
  2. Consult Your Vet
  3. Educate & Monitor 

Consider alternatives to your grain free diet. Vetnutrition.tufts.edu is an excellent resource for learning more about pet food and selecting the right food for your pet. For pets with unique nutrition needs, consider consulting a veterinary nutritionist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)?

DCM is a condition where the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged, reducing its ability to pump blood effectively.

 

Which pets are most affected?

  • ♦ Most common in middle-aged to older large breed dogs
  • ♦ Breeds like Dobermans, Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors are more commonly affected
  • ♦ Less common, but can occur in smaller breeds and rarely in cats
  •  

How is DCM diagnosed?

Your veterinarian may recommend:

  • Chest X-rays
  • Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Bloodwork (including taurine levels in some cases)

 

What is the prognosis?

Prognosis varies by cause and severity. Some pets respond well to treatment, especially if caught early, while others may have a more guarded outlook.

 

How can I schedule an appointment? 

Give us a call at 720-510-7707 to book a consultation. 

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